The Difference Between Marriage and Civil Unions

Title:The Difference Between Marriage and Civil Unions

Summary:
This article is precise and straight to the point. It explains the differences of civil unions and civil marriages, along with the pros and the cons of both. It makes it clear that things just aren't the same for you when you are gay or lesbian. Life is harder and more unfair for you yet you have to push through life and try to get what you want.

Reflection:
I thought it was interesting yet sad and almost horrible to read about the differences and challenges gay and lesbian couples face every single day. Often times people take far too many things in the country of the United States of America and I realize now that even I take advantage of things that these people don't even have access to.


Evidence:

*"First of all, What is Marriage? When people marry, they tend to do so for reasons of love and commitment. But marriage is also a legal status, which comes with rights and responsibilities. Marriage establishes a legal kinship between you and your spouse. It is a relationship that is recognized across cultures, countries and religions. "
*""A United States citizen who is married can sponsor his or her non-American spouse for immigration into this country. Those with Civil Unions have no such privilege."
*The General Accounting Office in 1997 released a list of 1,049 benefits and protections available to heterosexual married couples. These benefits range from federal benefits, such as survivor benefits through Social Security, sick leave to care for ailing partner, tax breaks, veterans benefits and insurance breaks. They also include things like family discounts, obtaining family insurance through your employer, visiting your spouse in the hospital and making medical decisions if your partner is unable to. Civil Unions protect some of these rights, but not all of them."


Questions:

* What makes all of these unfair things right?



Source:
Belge, Kathy. "The Difference Between Marriage and Civil Unions". About.Com. 3 Feb, 2010 .